North Star Strings (NSS) is our introductory strings only orchestra. The goal of this ensemble is to introduce students to ensemble playing and help develop note reading. Students in this orchestra should have a minimum of 1 year of private lessons and should be able to read music. All students who apply are accepted into this ensemble.

Youth Philharmonic (YP) is our intermediate ensemble open to wind, percussion, and string musicians. YP students can expect to see more challenging key signatures (up to 4 flats or sharps), challenging rhythms, and shift into higher positions. These students will typically have between 3-6 years of experience on their instrument and may have prior ensemble experience.

Youth Symphony Orchestra (YSO) is our most advanced ensemble offered to wind, percussion, and string musicians. YSO students will typically 4 or more years of experience on their instrument and have had prior ensemble experience. Repertoire for YSO will be selected from advanced high school or introductory collegiate level works.

The mission of the Mankato Area Youth Symphony Orchestras is to educate young musicians in a professional symphony atmosphere, to give opportunity to perform a wide variety of symphonic music, and to provide a variety of music education formats. It is our purpose to help prepare the young musician for participation in the world of symphonic music, either as a professional musician or as a patron of the arts.

The Mankato Area Youth Symphony Orchestra has been presenting concerts in our communities and teaching students since 1963.

We now offer several unique opportunities for students to play music including the Youth Symphony Orchestra, Youth Philharmonic, North Star Strings, Chamber Orchestra, Summer Pops Orchestra, and Percussion Ensemble